No fewer than 170 youths have benefited from Kogi Finance Commissioner AI sponsored training.
Speaking at the opening of a three-day Phase 2 Artificial Intelligence training held at the Banquet Hall of Government House, Lokoja, the Kogi State Commissioner for Finance, Budget and Economic Planning, Asiwaju Asiru Idris, says success in today’s world is no longer driven by resources alone but by knowledge, technology, and innovation.
He stated that Artificial Intelligence is not the future but the present, stressing that individuals and nations that embrace it will take the lead.
The programme was organised by the Tinubu/Ododo 2027 Continuity Support Group in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
The Commissioner commended the vision behind the initiative, describing the commitment to empowering youths with relevant digital and technological skills as timely and strategic for the future.
He acknowledged the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, noting that their dedication to innovation, economic growth, and human capital development continues to position the state for long-term prosperity.
“We are living in a rapidly evolving global economy where AI is shaping industries, governance, entrepreneurship, and daily life.
Nations and individuals who adopt these tools today will define the prosperity of tomorrow,” he said.
According to him, the training is more than an event; it is an opportunity for participants to improve productivity in their chosen fields, increase efficiency in delivering results, and enhance profitability through smart and innovative tools.
He noted that the inclusion of practical applications such as Canva for design and CapCut for video editing demonstrates that the programme is structured to provide hands-on, income-generating skills relevant to today’s digital economy.
Linking the initiative to Kogi State’s 32-Year Development Plan, anchored on Prosperity, Resilience, and Clear Direction, Asiwaju Idris said Artificial Intelligence plays a central role in achieving these pillars.
Also speaking, the Kogi State Commissioner for Livestock Development, Dr. Olufemi Bolarin, commended the Finance Commissioner for the laudable empowerment programme, describing it as a potential source of income for many participants. He pledged the ministry’s readiness to partner with trained participants to advance its objectives and strengthen the sector through the application of AI-driven solutions.
The Commissioner for Finance further explained that by equipping youths with digital and practical skills, the government is building a stronger and more competitive economy, empowered and self-reliant citizens, and a future-ready generation capable of thriving in a technology-driven world.
“This is how sustainable development is achieved, not only through infrastructure, but through people empowered with knowledge and skills,” he added.
In his closing remarks, Asiwaju Idris emphasized that progress cannot be sustained if people continually start over. He said the leadership being witnessed is focused not merely on the next election but on the next generation.
He described continuity as sustaining progress, expanding opportunities, strengthening institutions, and securing the future.
As Nigerians look ahead to 2027 and beyond, he said initiatives like the AI training demonstrate that continuity is not just a political slogan but a commitment to capacity building, economic expansion, and inclusive growth.
He urged the over one hundred participants to approach the training with seriousness, curiosity, and commitment.
“Do not just attend, engage actively, ask questions, practise deliberately, and apply what you learn,” he advised.
He added that the knowledge gained has the potential to transform personal livelihoods, create employment opportunities, and contribute meaningfully to the digital economy of Kogi State and Nigeria at large.
The Commissioner noted that the initiative is a clear indication that Kogi State is moving forward — strategically, digitally, and economically.
The Director General of the Kogi State Information, Communication, and Technology Development, Dr. Bashiru Tenuche, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry of Finance among others who attended the official declaration of the 3 days training.
